Hello. I am scheduled for a crown lengthening and a friend told me it is extremely painful, and the teeth are sensitive for quite a while after the operation. I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this? (It could just be her low tolerance for pain) I'm asking because I'll have family in town 4 days later staying at my house, and will be attending an important military event and I have to give a speech. Thoughts? Should I postpone?
Thanks.

I can't speak from experience but I've not heard many patients complain of much discomfort after having the crown lengthening procedure done. You may have sensitivity if the dentist exposes root where the nerve endings are closer to the surface. You can use Sensodyne toothpaste to help with any sensitivity you may have.

You may have heard correctly.

I do not have personal experience with this, so I did a quick search, and found this link:

Crown Lengthening Article | Periodontal Disease | Colgate® Oral Care Information Check-ups & Dental Procedures (http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/OralHealthBasics/CheckupsDentProc/PeriodontalDisease/CrownLengthening.cvsp)

It is very detailed and offers a very good explanation of what will be done.

I had it done. Make SURE you do the ice pack thing. Like every 20 minutes. It's the single most important thing to do. It aches rather than hurts.